Twice a year, Antioch Community High School holds a blood drive with the help of LifeSource. This past week, ACHS held its second blood drive this year and had a big turnout.

ACHS had a goal of 185 donations, but exceeded that with a whopping 218 donations. Overall, the school saved 685 lives with this generosity.

“I think we had a really good turnout throughout the day,” volunteer Amanda Pierce said. “I wish I could donate blood, but unfortunately I am under the weight minimum. I am happy I still got to help by volunteering for the blood drive though.”   

Blood drives save thousands of lives every year, and there is a large need of blood for hospital patients. According to the Red Cross, in the United States alone, every two seconds someone is in need of blood. About 21 million units are used for transfusions every year.

“People should donate because the need is high and it gives the chance for life which may not be there without that donation,” gym teacher Gregg Henning said.

One of the downfalls to giving blood is the fear of needles or passing out, but complications are not frequent while donating.

“I have donated 46 times and it is almost always smooth, as long as you follow the few standard rules of drinking plenty of water the day before your donation and you eat well prior to your donation,” Henning said.

Overall, everyone should give blood if they are able to. Following the rules beforehand is simple: drink plenty of water and eat breakfast, and the donation should go smoothly.